How to Win at Rock Paper Scissors

Almost everyone has played a game of Rock Paper Scissors (RPS) to settle some sort of skirmish in life. However, there is a growing culture of individuals who are taking RPS to the next level by turning it into a competitive sport. These pros have developed techniques that are sure to give you the upper hand next time you need to settle a score.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Know your opponent. Ideally you will have played Rock Paper Scissors against this person before, and you will subsequently have some idea of what type of player you're facing. Particularly pay attention if the person tends to favor one throw over another, or if there are any discernible tells before a certain throw.
2. Develop a system of multiple throws, or gambits, when playing Rock Paper Scissors. Gambits are any combination of three throws that can be relied upon to create a rhythm of play. This may seem counterproductive since you are trying to keep your opponent guessing, but if used properly gambits can create a rhythm that will lull your opponent into thinking they know what you're going to throw next. This is when you have the upper hand.
3. Twitch your hand to look like a possible scissors or paper during the count-off prior to the throw to psyche your opponent out. An opponent who takes the bait will assume what you're about to throw, but actually you're the one who knows what's coming. This technique takes practice and must be done in a way that doesn't confuse the actual throw; otherwise there will be grounds for debate about disqualification.
4. Get inside your opponent's head. Use banter during the game to make your opponent believe and behave the way that you want them to. For instance, you can say, "I know you're going to throw scissors this time," and as long as the person is unfamiliar with the tactic you can be fairly certain they won't throw scissors. At this point you'll know that paper is a safe throw.
5. Keep your throws as varied as possible, and try not to fall into any glaring patterns that your opponent can capitalize on. Even when using gambits, be sure to keep switching them up in order to make sure your opponent stays out of your head.

Tips & Warnings

• There are only 27 possible gambits to choose from in RPS, but in the professional circle there are what are referred to as "The Great Eight Gambits" that are utilized the most. They are as follows: Avalanche (RRR), Bureaucrat (PPP), Crescendo (PSR), Denouement (RSP), Fistful o' Dollars (RPP), Paper Dolls (PSS), Scissor Sandwich (PSP) and Toolbox (SSS).